Kigali International Airport has recently been honored with the prestigious Airport Carbon Accreditation at the Mapping level by Airports Council International (ACI).

This recognition highlights the airport’s dedicated efforts in addressing and reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, further solidifying its commitment to combatting climate change and promoting sustainable aviation practices.

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Airport Carbon Accreditation is a globally recognised carbon management programme specifically designed for airports. It independently assesses and acknowledges airports’ initiatives in managing and mitigating their CO2 emissions. It’s important to note that the programme focuses solely on airport emissions and does not include emissions from aircraft, which are significantly greater in scale.

An official representative from Rwanda Airports Company emphasised the significance of measuring carbon emissions by stating, "If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” This statement underscores the importance of achieving the Mapping Level in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. By accurately measuring carbon footprints, airports gain valuable insights that enable effective management and reduction of emissions.

The Airport Carbon Accreditation programme consists of six levels, each with specific requirements. At the Mapping Level (Level 1), airports are required to measure their carbon footprint accurately. The subsequent levels—Reduction (Level 2), Optimization (Level 3), Neutrality (Level 3+), Transformation, and Transition—involve different aspects of carbon footprint reduction, third-party engagement, offsetting emissions, and achieving climate goals.

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Kigali International Airport’s achievement places it among the 14 airports in Africa that have successfully mapped their carbon footprints. Additionally, it is one of the 30 active airports in Africa participating in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme.

Looking ahead, Rwanda Airports Company aims to enroll other airports in Rwanda in the programme. Their long-term vision includes making all of Rwanda’s airports zero carbon by 2050.